What is the benefit of using debt consolidation for credit card debt? I am trying to decide to either call the credit card companies myself and negotiate for a lower payoff/settlement amount, or to use a debt consolidation company? If I negotiate with the credit cards directly, will that be considered a charge off? I would want to settle myself if I can to avoid paying all the months of high interest. But if I use debt consolidation, then they will charge me a fee every month for so many years? What is their purpose? What would be the best route to go financially?

3 Responses to “What is the benefit of using debt consolidation for credit card debt? ?”

You have to make sure you have a reputable debt consolidation company. There are many out there that are not. I know that Consumer Credit Counseling is good because NCUA backs them and I have to work with them to coordinate classes for our members. The thing about debt consolidation companies is that sometimes they can get a better payment plan or rate because they have deal in place with the cc companies. Also, the credit card companies feel better because they know you are working with someone to actually pay down your debt.

You could also look into a consolidation loan through a credit union or bank. You have to look around and make sure you are getting a decent interest rate.

I think that you can get free consultations with the debt consolidation companies. This should tell you what the costs/fees would be. You can always try the calling the credit card companies first to work out a deal.

make use of the SE like google or yahoo to get some ideas first if you want to get the massive information,however if you do not want to spend so much time,here http://www.DebtFreetips.info/debt-free.htm is a direct and good resource for your questions.

The benefit is that they will take your money, and never actually pay any of your debt. So many of these places are ripoffs. Go buy total money makeover by Dave Ramsey. Great book on budgeting and debt repayment. What it will tell you basically is that you can do everything a debt consolidation company can do yourself.